How to Lead a Writing Workshop for Kids
Although creative writing is an inborn quality but one can polish up the writing skills by soliciting feedback from others. Writing workshops are the best way to provide new writers a platform to showcase their talent. These workshops also give them exposure and ultimately the courage to break their creative limits.
However, if you are organising a writer workshop for kids then things can be a bit difficult. It will be certainly difficult to maintain the decorum as they are inexperienced and too young for such things. However, you can lead a successful writing workshop by following some simple directions.
Instructions
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1
Make rules:
The first thing you should do is to make some rules to run everything smoothly. Make the participants realise that everyone has different creativity level so they must respect each other. State clearly that only constructive criticism will be accepted and they are not allowed to humiliate anyone. -
2
Make the arrangements:
As this writing workshop is under your supervision, it is your responsibility to arrange a place that is fit for such activity. Moreover, you should plan the seating in such a way that all the participants can see each other. The best way is to place them in a circle around a large table. -
3
Devise a schedule:
Now it is time to make a schedule of the session. You must tell them the sequence of their recital. Direct them to bring copies of their work so that others can also review their work and discuss later on. Make sure that you have plan the sequence in a way that every writer is getting a chance to present his work. -
4
Encourage the writers to share:
You must understand that some kids are shy and they hesitate in sharing their work. Being a leader, it is your responsibility to encourage them to participate. Give them special attention and they will open up gradually. -
5
Lead a discussion:
Discussion is an important part of every writing workshop as it gives the participants an opportunity to share their thoughts. It also enables the writer to learn from their criticism and refine their writing skills. However, you should ensure that nobody is passing negative comments and humiliating others. You should not tolerate this misconduct. -
6
Ask them to exchange contact numbers:
Last but not the least, you should ensure that they are connected even after the workshop. Encourage them to exchange their contact numbers.
